The brief for EAST Hotel was to create a high-end contemporary business hotel with all the facilities expected by international travelers within a relaxed ‘boutique’ environment. The 5-star hotel was to be designed to seamlessly connect but also standout within the larger INDIDO development, also designed by Benoy. 17 hectares of parklands situated to the east of the site and a unique local art culture provided strong inspiration guides, in keeping with the client’s vision.

Benoy worked closely with the client to ensure EAST hotel was created as an environmentally conscious design, which has resulted in the hotel’s prestigious LEED Gold award for sustainable design.

A challenge for the interior was incorporating all the facilities expected for this ‘brand’ of hotel within the relevantly small floor plate. Innovatively styled interior planning helped to house the Business Zone with fully equipped conference facilities and state-of-the-art Wellness Centre with gym, spa and infinity pool in the final design.

Elegant concealment and integration of personal amenities in guest rooms adds a sense of discovery while additions such as stand-alone bathtubs, oversized rain shower cubicles and built-in shower seating go beyond what is expected of a business hotel.

Working to deliver the culture of the host city directly to guests, the concept of floor-to-ceiling picture windows was successfully used in the bedrooms and public spaces to bring ‘in’ the panoramic views of the eastern Chaoyang parklands; an important design element given 70% of the guest rooms and all F&B offerings are located on the eastern side.

To echo the link to nature, heavy use of natural materials such as locally sourced, sustainable wood, bamboo and stone have been utilised for the interior decoration, complimented by a minimal colour palate to keep the spaces coherent.

Supporting the strong focus on art and the creation of a ‘boutique’ environment, the hotel as a whole is a showcase of carefully curated artworks supporting the the famous 798 and Caochandi art zones nearby. Bespoke photography from hidden and secret areas of Beijing has been employed for feature walls in guest rooms and further delivers culture of Beijing directly to guests. The reception area has been specifically designed to allude to an art gallery; with clean lines, minimal furniture and space given to house the two feature art pieces created by local contemporary artists.

The Hotel links to the retail, leisure and transport hubs in the INDIGO development on the ground and first floor levels, ensuring convenient connectivity for guests and to position EAST as more than the common stand-alone business hotel.